At CODA Bespoke, we believe great design starts with a great brief. The more clarity you have at the outset, the smoother your journey will be from first sketch to final handover. Below we share the top questions to consider before engaging an architect, along with guidance on how each one can shape your project.
Start by thinking about your motivations. Are you creating a forever home, improving functionality for family life, or adding value before a sale? Understanding the “why” behind your project helps your architect tailor solutions that truly fit your needs.
Take time to gather inspiration from magazines, Pinterest boards or the CODA Bespoke projects page. Identifying spaces, materials and layouts you love gives your architect valuable insight into your aesthetic preferences.
Your budget is one of the most important factors in shaping design decisions. Being open about finances allows your architect to balance ambition with practicality and advise where best to invest. Remember to factor in design fees, planning costs, structural input, VAT and a contingency for unforeseen expenses.
A transparent conversation from the start prevents disappointment later and helps your architect deliver a scheme that is achievable and realistic.
Depending on the scale and location of your project, you may need planning permission or building regulations approval. An architect will guide you through what is required and manage submissions on your behalf.
For listed properties or work in conservation areas, you may also need specialist consent. Practices like CODA Bespoke have experience liaising with planning officers and heritage consultants to secure approvals smoothly.
Architects can offer a range of services, from concept design only to full project management through construction. Consider how involved you want to be and how much time you can dedicate to the project. A full service ensures consistency, quality control and clear communication across every stage.
Explore our expertise and services to see how we tailor support for different project types, then decide whether you want design only or complete coordination.
Every site and client is unique, but relevant experience is invaluable. Ask to see examples of similar work in scale, budget or style. Reviewing a practice’s portfolio will give you confidence in their ability to deliver homes that align with your aspirations.
Our portfolio showcases a mix of contemporary new builds, sensitive extensions and bespoke refurbishments across Sheffield, Yorkshire and beyond.
Clear communication is the foundation of a successful project. Ask how the architect presents ideas, whether through sketches, 3D visualisations or detailed drawings. Discuss how often you will meet, how feedback is handled and what tools they use to keep you updated.
At CODA Bespoke, collaboration is central to our process. We hold regular design reviews and provide visual aids that make it easy to understand how your home will look and feel before construction begins.
In the UK, anyone calling themselves an architect must be registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Many are also chartered members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), which sets professional standards and codes of conduct.
Working with a registered architect gives you assurance of training, experience and professional indemnity insurance, protecting your investment.
Every project has its own rhythm. Ask for an outline of the design, planning and construction stages so you can plan around key milestones. Your architect will also highlight factors that influence timing, such as planning lead times or seasonal construction windows.
Having a clear programme in place helps manage expectations and keeps your project on track from the start.
Defining success early ensures everyone shares the same vision. For some, success means achieving planning approval on a challenging site. For others, it may be completing a home that feels calm, connected and built to last. Communicate your priorities clearly so your architect can design with these goals in mind.
Ultimately, choosing an architect is about trust. You will work closely together for many months, so it is essential you feel listened to, understood and inspired by their approach. Take time to meet, ask questions and ensure the chemistry feels right.
At CODA Bespoke, we value honest dialogue and collaboration. Our clients appreciate the balance of creativity, clarity and professionalism we bring to every project.
Here are some of the most common questions homeowners ask when planning a project. Use these if you are preparing for your first meeting with an architect.
Engage an architect as early as possible. Early involvement allows them to shape your brief, identify opportunities and flag potential planning constraints before key decisions are made.
Not always. Some works fall under permitted development rights, but these have strict limits. Your architect can advise whether consent is needed and manage any applications through the local authority.
Fees depend on the size, complexity and level of service required. At CODA Bespoke we provide a clear, tailored proposal after our initial consultation so you know exactly what is included.
Bring inspiration images, notes on what you like and dislike about your current home, budget considerations and timescales. The more context you provide, the easier it is for your architect to design a space that suits your lifestyle.
Asking thoughtful questions before engaging an architect helps you make confident, informed decisions. At CODA Bespoke, we welcome open dialogue and value the trust our clients place in us. Whether you are planning a new build, extension or renovation, our team will guide you from first ideas to finished home. Use our Brief Us form to share your goals, or explore our expertise and services before you get in touch.
